From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
In a decisive step to combat Nigeria’s fuel scarcity, Operation Whirlwind has intensified its crackdown on fuel smuggling, seizing 67,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), valued at about N84.8 million along the Kwara-Niger border.
The seized fuel was later auctioned to the public, a move reflecting the government’s commitment to curbing the illegal fuel trade.
Chado Zakari, spokesperson for the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, confirmed the success of the operation in a statement issued in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Related News
Zakari noted, “In the face of widespread fuel scarcity, Nigeria’s Operation Whirlwind has made a significant impact in the fight against fuel smuggling.”
“The operation, launched in May 2024, is a joint initiative between the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), aimed at addressing illegal petroleum exports.
Comptroller Hussaini Ejibunu, who heads the operation, emphasised its impact, stating that Operation Whirlwind has helped curb PMS smuggling along Kwara’s borders, safeguarding national resources and enhancing border security.
“People are suffering due to artificial scarcity, yet smugglers are profiting by taking these products outside the country. They either desist or face arrest,” Ejibunu warned.
In recent enforcement actions, officers intercepted 99 kegs of PMS, valued at N2,970,000, in the Gwanara area on September 17 and 18. Another 90 kegs, worth N2.7 million, were seized around the Gure/Kusoboso axis on September 30.
The operation also led to the interception of two tankers carrying a total of 66,000 liters of PMS, with registration numbers FST-524 XG and JJJ-14-XQ, valued at over N79 million.
The seized fuel was auctioned to various stakeholders, including security agencies such as the Immigration Service, Police, DSS, EFCC, Army, NDLEA, NCoS, and NSCDC, as well as the public.
Comptroller Ejibunu, further disclosed that a suspect connected to the smuggling was apprehended and granted administrative bail.
Ejibunu expressed gratitude for the support of Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, pledging the operation’s continued efforts to crack down on fuel smugglers.
“This action sends a strong warning to smugglers,” he stated.
He also noted that the seized tankers have been handed over to the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA) for further investigation.
